Santa Fe A/S : Top 5 Reasons To Work In Shanghai

The opportunity to work in Shanghai is highly attractive for expatriates, based on one factor; Asia is the world's leading destination for the ambitious and has a track record for high-achieving expats. If you're interested in joining the mass of foreign residents already employed in the city, you've chosen a great time. The current business climate in Shanghai is ideal for expats seeking a career in the heart of Asia. Here at Santa Fe Relocation, we're taking a look at the top five reasons to work in Shanghai, to help you decide whether or not you should consider relocating to fulfil your dreams.

Money, money, money!

When considering a new location, money is the first thing everybody wants to know about - for the right reasons. There's a lot more to moving abroad than just packing up your home and hopping on the next flight. If your pay packet isn't worth the strenuous experience, there is little point taking the plunge, however, it is all good news where Shanghai is concerned. The 2014 Expat Explorer report issued by HSBC revealed that China ranked number one on their Expat Economics league table, which grades countries based upon expats' view on the local economy. It is no shock that China has emerged as one of the few hotspots for high earners, with near to one quarter of expats living there taking home £190,000 annually.

Inexpensive cost of living

A large pay cheque doesn't mean much if it doesn't go very far, but in Shanghai it does. In the same report, China ranked fourth on the Expat Expenses league table, which measures expats' ability to comfortably afford goods and services - unlike the US and Australia. With a wide gap between the average income and low cost of living, expats are rewarded with a higher disposable income than they would have at home, or anywhere else for that matter.

Endless professional opportunities

There's no doubt about it; Shanghai is an international city with unmissable opportunities for work and lifestyle alike. Due to the fact there are so many jobs in almost every sector imaginable, you will meet so many people from all over the world. You'll make friends with locals and expats with a similar background to you, all of whom share the hope to make it big in this incredible city. Shanghai is also an ideal destination for ambitious entrepreneurs who want to launch their own start-up amongst a fast-paced industry - just like Chen Di. Di is founder and CEO of YouMi, a mobile advertising solution, which offers an extensive range of mobile advertisement services to advertisers, as well as mobile developments, advertising agencies and web masters in more than 600 cities around the world.

World's largest metro system

It's extremely easy to get to one place to another in Shanghai, for both business and pleasure. From exploring its rich cultural history to sightseeing, or simply travelling to work, getting around the city is straightforward. With 16 subway lines and extensive bus routes, plus the continuous stream of taxis, expats will have no issue getting from one place to the next. Commutes are made even more convenient with a driver, but for short distances a brisk walk is scenic and good exercise.

Thrilling adventure

Moving to a new city is never easy. Leaving your familiar surroundings, friends and family behind to start a new adventure is daunting. If you currently live in a western country, moving to Shanghai can be even more overwhelming. However, if you feel like you are stuck in a rut professionally, or are simply looking for an exciting challenge, Shanghai is certainly the place for you! Here you will have the opportunity to immerse yourself in one of the most dynamic and exciting cities in the world.

If you're considering relocating to Shanghai for work, and you want to discuss how we can help you on moving day, get in touch with a member of our expert team today!